Lenawee County, MI - At just 17 years old, El Klumpp is already proving that when one door closes, another exciting opportunity opens. A junior at Sand Creek High School and a student at the Lenawee Intermediate School District (LISD) TECH Center, El originally set her sights on joining the Culinary Arts program. However, when all the slots were filled, she found a new path—one that has led to unexpected growth, exciting experiences, and a shot at statewide recognition.
"I wanted to be in Culinary at first, but it was full," El shares. "Then I found out about the Hospitality program. We still get to cook, but we also learn hotel management, deeper cooking skills, and everyday life skills that have been really helpful."
The switch turned out to be a perfect fit. The Hospitality program at LISD TECH Center isn’t just about books and lectures. “My favorite thing about this class is that it’s very hands-on,” El says with enthusiasm. “We get to do fun projects and learn so much.”
It’s not just the class that El enjoys, it’s the entire atmosphere of the LISD TECH Center. "The people are great, and everyone gets to choose what they want to do. You can actually enjoy your education here," she explains.
That sense of community and opportunity led El to an exciting new challenge: Skills USA. With encouragement from her principal and instructor, El stepped up to compete. “They told me I was qualified and asked if I wanted to do it,” she recalls. “I said yes.”
Now, with the Skills USA state competition just around the corner, El is fully immersed in preparation. “I’m working hard, going over everything I might encounter during the competition,” she says. “I’m nervous, sure, but I’m also really excited. Not everyone gets this chance—especially not everyone gets to say they placed first.”
The competition will be held at the Amway Grand Hotel in Grand Rapids, where El will spend a packed three-day weekend.
Looking ahead, El has big plans. After graduating, she intends to continue working in the hospitality industry before joining the military. It’s a path filled with discipline, service, and drive—qualities that El already has.
El’s journey is a testament to resilience and making the most of every opportunity. What started as a detour from her original plan has turned into a passion for hospitality and a chance to shine on a statewide stage. With her determination, enthusiasm, and commitment to growth, there’s no doubt El Klumpp is on the path to a bright future.